Over 330,000 Land Transaction Returns were submitted electronically between April and September 2007, compared to just over 212,000 in the previous six months, across the UK according to HMRC. This represents a massive 56 per cent increase.
If a homeowner submits a return online, they will automatically be sent a Land Transaction Certificate (Form SDLT 5) electronically, saving both time and resources. It can then be printed off and sent to the relevant land registry, which registers change of ownership.
HMRC is continually upgrading the service, and has recently made improvements, for example, allowing much more information to be included in the online surname fields.
HMRC head of stamp taxes for online services, Sally Mills, said: "The massive increase in the numbers of people filing online for SDLT certificates speaks for itself. It's very easy to use, and you receive your certificate by return of e-mail, rather than having to wait for the post."
SDLT Operations Manager for Land Registry, Martin Gardner, said: "Land Registry is partnering with HM Revenue & Customs in the promotion of Stamp Taxes Online, through its website, customer magazine and information centres.
"Land Registry's vision is to make property transactions easier for all, and so we are delighted to support Stamp Taxes Online as a service which saves time and money for conveyancers and the public alike."
You can find details on the SDLT Online Service by visiting the HMRC website at: www.hmrc.gov.uk/so/online/menu.htm
